$22-million pedestrian bridge connecting Bridgeland and St. Patrick's Island under construction, opening 2028
Phase 1 of the Bow River crossing is funded by the General Hospital Legacy Fund and the city. A second phase will eventually replace the aging Memorial Drive link.
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Construction has begun on a $22-million pedestrian bridge connecting Bridgeland LRT station to St. Patrick's Island across the Bow River, with Phase 1 expected to open in 2028.
The bridge is designed for walking, wheeling and cycling. Mark Schultes, senior structural engineer for the city and project manager, said the project was community-led. "It's really about creating a safer, more accessible connection and have it be a bit more enjoyable to use than what is there right now," Schultes said. "It's not just a standard pedestrian bridge; it also has a public realm component to it."
Construction began in summer 2026, with contractor Graham handling the work. Temporary pathway detours are in place during construction.
Phase 1 is budgeted at $22 million. The General Hospital Legacy Fund—created in 1997 and funded by investment returns on proceeds from the sale and lease of former Calgary General Hospital and Bow Valley Centre lands—contributed $17 million. The City of Calgary provided $5 million. Phase 2, which will eventually replace the aging Memorial Drive crossing between Bridgeland and the CTrain station, has no timeline yet.
Anthony Imbrogno, communications director for the Bridgeland-Riverside Community Association, said residents look forward to improved access to the river. Some raised concerns about the funding source. "Eyebrows were raised at that (decision)," Imbrogno said. "There is a sense that there are other true legacy projects that could be funded—one being the work done by community members for the General Hospital commemorative plaza."
The city's legacy fund review committee chose to fund the bridge because "it is a healthy initiative that will encourage active modes of transportation and help connect the community to the Bow River and St. Patrick's Island."
The city is exploring funding sources for the Memorial Drive replacement, including options to be deliberated in the four-year budget council will discuss next month.
What is the estimated cost of Phase 2, and what funding sources is the city considering?
How much will temporary pathway detours affect pedestrian access to St. Patrick's Island during construction?
We'll update this story as answers emerge.
The facts
How much is the pedestrian bridge costing?
$22 million for Phase 1, with $17 million contributed by the General Hospital Legacy Fund and $5 million by the City of Calgary.
When will the bridge open?
Phase 1 of the pedestrian bridge is expected to open in 2028.
What does the bridge connect?
The bridge connects Bridgeland LRT station to St. Patrick's Island across the Bow River and accommodates walking, wheeling, and cycling.
Who is building the bridge?
Contractor Graham is handling construction, which began in summer 2026.
